Cannot Activate Windows XP

Blank Activate Windows page in the Windows Product Activation Wizard.

Cause:

• This issue can occur for any one of the following reasons:
• Your registry is damaged or has been modified.
• Files became damaged during the Windows XP installation, or files are missing.
• You have a video resolution problem.

Important: This task contains steps that tell you how to modify the registry. However, serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Therefore, make sure that you follow these steps carefully. For added protection, back up the registry before you modify it. Then, you can restore the registry if a problem occurs.

Note: If the 30-day activation window has ended, you can start the computer in Safe mode to complete these steps.

Repair a Corrupt File in Windows XP

Cause:

Malware, improper installs, and poor maintenance are usually the major causes of these file errors.

Windows XP and VISTA have an application that allows you to auto-repair damaged files which is known as SFC SCAN command. This administrative tool allows Windows to try and repair itself. It will scan all system files and replace any that are damaged or missing. If repairs are needed, you will need to supply the Windows CD so that the functional files can replace the ones that are causing your computer to constantly restart itself.

Steps to be followed:

• Click "Start"--> Click Run
  
  
• Type Command Prompt" or type cmd
  
  
• Type "sfc/scannow"
  
  
• The tool will scan for damaged files. When prompted provide the "Windows original disk" for repair.